Supporting Minnesotans with ASD to Get Jobs in Technology Fields

Employment and Autism

Employment outcomes for individuals with ASD have traditionally been poor. Finding the right position begins with discovering the interests and skills of the person; assessing the learning style and the work environment. The Autism Society of Minnesota concluded that since people with ASD have difficulties with social cognition and sensory processing, they initially need a more formalized network of support, structured teaching of tasks, ample time to learn the job, and accommodations for sensory differences. The Autism Society of Minnesota advise businesses that these eight accommodations may be the key to successful employment outcomes:

Clarify job expectations

Use visuals to instruct and organize

Communicate in a direct manner

Structure the workplace to avoid distractions or sensory overloads

Minimize multi-task assignments

Allow independent roles, assign a job mentor

Establish job routines

Work with a job coach

For more information about the topic of employment and autism go to these resources:

*Frank R. Rusch, Ph.D.
Known internationally for his research related to transition from school to work. Penn State College of Education, Professor Rusch has been studying for over 30 years how to utilize social capital to support individuals with disabilities after graduation from high school, how to structure transition services to promote meaningful outcomes, how to promote individual autonomy as a result of learning to direct one’s own behavior, and how to utilize diverse methodologies in the study of socially relevant outcomes.

The Autism Society of Minnesota

The Autism Society of Minnesota is comprised of families, educators, care givers, and professionals all committed to supporting individual with autism spectrum disorder through education support, collaboration, and advocacy. Advice and insights regarding employment issues are available via a Facebook account.